The Young and the Restless' Kristoff St. John (Neil Winters) has taken to social media to express his gratitude for fan support during his extended leave of absence and upon his return.

The Young and the Restless viewers had to endure an excruciating four months without Emmy-winning actor Kristoff St. John (Neil Winters) on the canvas, and the actor has taken to social media to thank fans for their unwavering support during his absence and excitement upon his return to the CBS soap opera.

St. John returned to work in March following an absence taken to “undergo psychiatric treatment after a reported scare regarding his mental health,” and he's thankful that so many viewers stood in his corner.

“Dear Twitter family,” he wrote. “Your words of support during my absence from Y&R, and welcoming me back to the show with open arms, has been the fuel to light the flames of courage, strength, and inspiration in my being. I am full of gratitude, and lucky to have you.”

Dear Twitter FamilyYour words of support during my absence from Y&R, and welcoming me back to the show with open arms, has been the fuel to light the flames of courage, strength, and inspiration in my being.I am full of gratitude, and lucky to have you.TrulyKSJ pic.twitter.com/DTPJw6nvRD

Fans weren't the only ones who missed St. John during his four-month absence. His costars were also thrilled when he made his comeback earlier this spring and showered the actor with praise upon his return. For more on that, click here.

St. John has been open about his personal battles with depression following the death of his son, Julian, just over three years ago. Julian's death, which was ruled a suicide, resulted in a lawsuit against the facility that had been charged with Julian's care.

How happy are you to have St. John's Neil back in Genoa City? What kind of storyline would you love written for the actor in the months ahead? We want to hear from you -- and there are many ways you can share your thoughts.